Chris Tippett has been appointed manager of the Manning Entertainment Centre.
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An experienced member of the MEC team for more than 15 years, he has been the acting manager for the past 12 months.
Chris said the focus will be on bringing the best touring acts to the MidCoast, while also building a strong local performing arts culture which is accessible to all.
“Our vision at the MEC is to foster a culturally enriching performing arts program to entertain and inspire our community.”
He considers improvement of the physical infrastructure and technology that allows the MEC to achieve these core objectives as vital.
“The MEC team will have a strong focus on the development of performing arts in the MidCoast region, as well as presenting the best in touring theatre, music, comedy and dance.
"I'm passionate about local arts and this community so I’m am absolutely thrilled to have secured the position of theatre manager, which allows me to continue the great work of previous managers Mike Collins and Jeremy Miller who have helped grow and shape the region's cultural landscape.”
He said engaging with the MidCoast community to develop a strong, local performing arts sector and ensure the performing arts in our region is accessible to all ages, abilities and all backgrounds, is important.
Chris will be involved in a $2.6 million upgrade to the MEC building, thanks to funding of $1.6 million from the NSW Government's Regional Cultural Fund and a private $1 million bequest from the estate of Beryl June Flett.
Chris has lived in the MidCoast region for more than 20 years and has been employed at the MEC for 15 of those years, starting in 2004 as a theatre technician.
He is a musician, having played in several bands prior to his MEC appointment and has undertaken production for local bands for many years.
"I feel extremely privileged to have been granted this opportunity and look forward to leading the wonderful team of staff and volunteers we have here at the MEC into the future."